Five Seasons Family Sports Club Blog

Are there any foods out there that can actually help you lose weight? Believe it or not, there are dozens of high-quality, nutrient-rich foods that can help you drop unwanted pounds by boosting your metabolism and keeping cravings at bay. Below are 10 of the most popular foods that can help you power up your weight loss efforts.

1. Blueberries

There's a reason why blueberries are called a "superfood"--they're one of the healthiest and most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, even among their close berry cousins. Blueberries have the highest antioxidant level of any commonly consumed fruit, and they deliver about 4 grams of fiber per cup, which will help you feel full without loading your stomach down with anything bulky or heavy.

2. Salsa

Salsa is already a healthy choice due to the fact that it's basically an all-vegetable affair, but numerous studies have shown that its spicy properties actually help give your metabolism a boost, even hours after you've finished your meal. Not only that, but the spicy heat of salsa can activate certain receptors in your mouth that release "feel-good" hormones known as endorphins into your system, which can boost your mood, making you more satisfied with your meal (and maybe less likely to go hunting for a sweet treat afterwards).

3. Eggs

Eggs provide generous amounts of protein, and they're also packed with amazing nutrients such as selenium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, zinc, and copper. Another great benefit of this classic nutritional powerhouse is that it typically makes you feel more full than you would if you were to eat something like a bagel or croissant for breakfast. This will cut down on those post-breakfast snack cravings that can sometimes happen within only an hour of eating.

4. Wild Salmon

The Omega-3 fatty acids found in wild salmon are not only great for your heart, but they also play a significant role in improving your insulin sensitivity, which can help you build muscle and decrease that stubborn belly fat. Remember, the more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn at rest, so be sure to add wild salmon to your arsenal of fat-zapping foods.

5. Pomegranate Seeds

The pomegranate has become famous in health and fitness circles due to its outstanding antioxidant benefits, but don't overlook its power-packed seeds! They offer low calories along with high fiber, which allows you to curb those sweet cravings without ruining your diet. You can eat them alone as a snack, or sprinkle them on top of salads or fruit parfaits.

6. Plain Yogurt

Many nutritionists consider plain yogurt to be one of the most well-balanced foods you can add to your diet, because it contains adequate amounts of all three major nutrients: protein, fat and carbs. This allows you to feel more full while not throwing your blood sugar out of whack, which will in turn keep impulsive cravings at bay.

7. Apples

Apples are a highly popular snack among health and nutrition enthusiasts, because their light calorie content (95 calories) belies their ability to make you feel satiated after eating one. Increasing your fiber intake is one of the best ways to prevent weight gain, and with roughly four grams of fiber per medium-sized apple, this classic fruit is one that you cannot afford to pass up.

8. Avocados

Most of us have heard that avocados contain a fairly high amount of fat, and this is true, but don't worry--it's monounsaturated fat, a.k.a. "good fat," which is actually very good for your heart. This will increase satiety, which makes it a top pick for your list of weight loss foods. You can spread avocado on your sandwich instead of mayo, add chunks of it to your salad, or mash it up into a flavorful guacamole dip with whole-grain tortilla chips.

9. Steel-Cut Oats

Steel-cut oats undergo very little processing before you get them, which means less artificial ingredients and more natural nutrients. With 5 grams of fiber per serving, oats are exceptionally filling, making them prime candidates for a hearty breakfast. Try a bowl of steel-cut oats sweetened with wildflower honey and cinnamon for a delectable, filling and appetite-taming breakfast.

10. Pears

One pear can provide up to 15% of your recommended daily fiber intake, giving you that full feeling that can curb random cravings. Just remember to keep the skin on, because that's where the highest fiber content can be found.